The National University of San Martín (UNSAM), a renowned public institution in Argentina committed to innovation and sustainability, has taken a significant step towards promoting healthy and responsible eating habits. Through its university dining hall, Mensa-UNSAM, the university offers daily exclusively plant-based menu options, benefiting students and staff alike.
This initiative positions UNSAM as a pioneer in implementing sustainable dining practices within Argentine universities. Mensa-UNSAM has adopted an innovative strategy: plant-based options prevail in its facilities, offering animal protein separately at an additional cost. This approach not only promotes healthier eating but also contributes to reducing the environmental footprint by decreasing the consumption of animal products.
Collaboration with the "Alimentando el Mañana" program, a non-profit initiative that works with institutions to promote healthier, more sustainable, and accessible eating, has been key in this process. Thanks to this partnership, Mensa-UNSAM has a permanent rotation of recipes, ensuring variety and quality in the options offered. It is estimated that, after just over a month in operation, more than 40,000 100% plant-based meals will be served annually, benefiting students and positively contributing to reducing the environmental footprint by replacing meals with animal-based ingredients with plant-based options.
Beyond the gastronomic offering, Mensa-UNSAM stands out for its sustainable practices. More than 80% of attendees bring their own utensils, reducing the use of plastics and disposables. The fruits and vegetables used come from agroecological gardens, promoting a fairer and more environmentally friendly food production. Additionally, composting practices are implemented, and biodegradable tableware is used, reinforcing the university's commitment to sustainability.
UNSAM thus joins a global trend seeking to incorporate more sustainable and conscious dining options in educational institutions. This initiative not only promotes healthy habits among the university community but also serves as an example for other institutions wishing to adopt similar practices.
In a context where plant-based eating is gaining more followers for its health and environmental benefits, UNSAM demonstrates leadership and commitment to the well-being of its community and the planet.
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